The Current Employment Situation in the UK

[sarat]

I'm a recent university graduate in Canada who's looking to move to the UK (I'm flexible about where). I would love to settle down and get a job in the UK, but I understand that the current economic climate has made it difficult for job-seekers. I was wondering if anyone has any thoughts on how hard it is to find work in the UK right now and any suggestions for companies that usually hire foreigners. I know there are a lot of other topics discussing employment, but none have really answered my question.

Thanks so much!

[kolkol]

Hey mate,

I just moved here hopefully to join the British Army...which is FULL. An odd thing for a Canadian to hear indeed, because back home all you ever hear about the Canadian Forces is how much they're struggling to recruit. Now, usually the doom and gloom news I hear on TV I take with a grain of salt. Living in BC, for example, I didn't 'believe' in this recession talk..I was making $300 a night bartending...there was no recession in my book...but it is pretty brutal out here. You regularly see older, ex-manager looking types working jobs such as supermarket stocking, or coffee-shop barista...I don't know a lot, but I know that it is pretty bad...my flatmate has been to 30+ interviews in the last 2 months...nothing came to fruition (though it could be 'cuz of his personality ).

Cheers and best of luck.

[MichaelVH]

I'm living in the South East, and moved here from Vancouver Island, BC. In BC I hardly noticed the effects of the recession, but here, it is much more apparent. Businesses and people are struggling to get by, and there is a prevailing mood of a recession.

In my own job search, I've been looking for a specialized position, and companies are hiring - but they are awash with under qualified candidates. I've also found recruiting agencies, and positions posted by agencies to be a complete waste of time - they would call me and I'd never hear from them again, I would try and return their calls and not ever get through, and they would immediately tell me the position they posted is filled - but would be happy to add me to their database.

My suggestion, is apply to many positions directly - as unlike my experience in Canada where I would apply for 5-6 positions, have 2-3 interview and likely 1-2 job offers. I've applied for 25-30 positions I've felt fitted my experience and skills, and only heard back from 4 or 5.

Good luck in your search.
Michael

[surfgurl1277]

I have been unemployed since moving over here 11 months ago! It has been absolutely BRUTAL! I have applied to 100+ jobs since moving over to Manchester and I am STILL trying to find work!! It really hits your confidence!! You dont realise how crappy it is to keep getting rejection letters in the mail. Hopefully things calm down soon!! otherwise I will have to leave Good luck to everyone! x

Laura

[Thinkerbell]

Hello Laura,
Would it be too much to ask in which field you are looking for a job. I may try to move close to Birmingham next year (met this great guy) and I'm a bit scared about it all. Thanks for letting me know.
Martine